Relevance: GS II (International Relations – Bilateral Ties) | Source: The Hindu / PIB
1. Context: Strategic Deepening
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in New Delhi amidst significant geopolitical shifts in West Asia.
- The meeting underscored the transition of the relationship from a “buyer-seller” dynamic to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
2. Key Outcomes
- Economic Ambition: The leaders set a bold new target of $200 billion in bilateral trade, revising the earlier goals set under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
- Energy Security: The focus was on securing long-term Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) supply agreements. The UAE remains a critical pillar for India’s energy needs.
- Strategic Sectors: Discussions expanded beyond trade to include collaboration in Space exploration and deepening Defence ties.
3. Sidebar: India’s Strong Stand
In a parallel diplomatic engagement, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Poland’s Deputy PM.
- On Trade: He criticized US tariffs on nations buying Russian oil as “selective targeting,” asserting India’s right to strategic autonomy.
- On Terror: He cautioned Poland regarding its engagement with Pakistan, reiterating India’s “Zero Tolerance” policy toward terror infrastructure in the neighborhood.
UPSC Value Box
Concept / Agreement | Relevance for Prelims |
| CEPA (2022) | The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and UAE was India’s first such deal in a decade. It allows duty-free access for Indian goods (gems, textiles) to the UAE. |
| Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) | The UAE (via ADNOC) is the first international partner to invest in India’s SPR program (specifically the Mangalore Cavern), boosting India’s emergency energy buffer. |
| I2U2 Grouping | Often called the “West Asian Quad”, comprising India, Israel, UAE, and USA. It focuses on joint investments in water, energy, and food security. |
Q. With reference to India-UAE relations, consider the following statements:
- The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was the first major free trade agreement signed by the UAE with any country.
- The UAE is the first international partner to participate in India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) program.
- India and the UAE are both members of the I2U2 grouping.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: (b)
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